The best time to see puffins on the Westman Islands is late April through mid-August , with June and July giving the most active and reliable viewing.

Quick Scoop

  • Late April to May: Puffins return to the islands and start nesting, so sightings become possible again.
  • June to July: This is the peak viewing window ; adults are busiest flying between the sea and burrows to feed chicks.
  • Early August: Pufflings are growing and activity starts to taper off, but there is still good viewing.
  • Mid-to-late August: Adults and young begin heading back out to sea, and puffin numbers drop quickly.

Best time of day

Early mornings and late evenings are usually the best times to watch them, because puffins are most active then.

Where people usually look

Stórhöfði is a well-known viewing spot on Heimaey, and boat trips also give close views of the cliffs and flying birds.

Simple takeaway

If you want the safest bet, plan for June or July on the Westman Islands.

TL;DR: Puffins are present from late April to mid-August , but June and July are the prime months for seeing the most birds.